Introduction to DOT format:

Paddling as a sport has seen a massive increase over the last five years, thanks in the most part to the meteoric rise of standup paddling, both coastally and on inland lakes and rivers.  Although equipment and technique have experienced profound change during this period of rapid growth the actual event format has largely remained the same – paddlers compete over a given distance and are judged based off of how quickly they complete the course. Beginning in 2012 the Paddle for Humanity event series will introduce a unique and revolutionary race format known as DOT, or Distance Over Time.

FAQ:

What is a DOT race?

DOT stands for Distance Over Time.  Unlike traditional distance and BOP style events which judge participants on their time over a given distance, DOT style events are time based, judging the performance of a participant on how much distance he or she can paddle in a set amount of time.  Participants will paddle laps on a course equal to or greater than one ½ mile in length.  At the end of the allotted time a horn will be blown signaling the final lap.  At this time all paddlers must finish their current lap, round a specific buoy, known as a turnout, and move directly to the finish line.

How long will the PFH events be? 

For the 2012 Paddle for Humanity will feature a one-mile course and a 1:00 (one hour) cut off. (more…)